Graduation Cap Platter

A festive and creative appetizer platter designed to resemble a graduation cap, perfect for celebrating academic achievements with friends and family.

This platter always brings a smile at graduation parties and is fun to arrange with loved ones.

Ingredients

• Platter Base: 1 large square cracker (or flatbread approx. 15x15 cm / 6x6 in), 1 small round cheese wheel (e.g. Babybel or Brie about 5 cm / 2 in diameter)
• Garnishes & Details: 8 slices cheddar cheese, 1 red bell pepper, 1 bunch fresh chives, 1/2 cup black olives, 1/2 cup green grapes, 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, 1/2 cup cubed Gouda cheese, 1/2 cup crackers
• Optional Dips: 1/2 cup hummus, 1/2 cup ranch dressing

Instructions

Step 1:

Place the cheese wheel in the center of a large serving platter to form the base of the graduation cap.

Step 2:

Position the large square cracker or flatbread directly on top of the cheese wheel, aligning the edges to resemble the caps mortarboard.

Step 3:

Cut a thin strip from the red bell pepper to create the caps tassel. Place one end in the center of the square cracker, letting the rest drape over the edge.

Step 4:

Tie a fresh chive around the base of the pepper strip to mimic the tassel knot.

Step 5:

Arrange the cheddar cheese slices, olives, grapes, cherry tomatoes, Gouda cubes, and crackers artistically around the cap to create an inviting appetizer platter.

Step 6:

Serve with optional dips in small bowls placed on the side.

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This dish has become a family favorite for celebrating milestones and makes a perfect party icebreaker.

Required Tools

Large serving platter, small bowl(s) for dips, sharp knife, small cutting board

Allergen Information

Contains Milk (cheese), Wheat (crackers), Possible egg (ranch dressing). May contain gluten use gluten-free crackers or flatbread if required. Always check dip and cheese labels for additional allergens.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 170, Total Fat: 10 g, Carbohydrates: 13 g, Protein: 7 g per serving

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Enjoy crafting this charming platter that celebrates achievement deliciously and visually.

Recipe FAQs

→ What is the base for the graduation cap platter?

A large round cheese wheel serves as the base, topped with a square cracker or flatbread to mimic the cap shape.

→ How is the tassel on the platter created?

A thin strip of red bell pepper tied with a fresh chive replicates the tassel draping over the cap.

→ Which cheeses are used in this platter?

The platter features a small round cheese wheel, cheddar slices, and cubed Gouda for variety and color.

→ Are there suggestions for dietary variations?

Substitute the cracker with gluten-free flatbread and add rolled prosciutto or salami for a meaty option.

→ What dips complement this appetizer arrangement?

Hummus and ranch dressing are recommended dips to enhance the flavors of the cheeses and veggies.

→ How should this platter be served?

Arrange all ingredients artistically around the cap on a large platter and serve immediately with dipping bowls on the side.